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Treatment Of Women In The Chrysalids By John Wyndham

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Christopher McDougall, an American author and journalist, once said, “It takes a woman to bring out the best in a man.” Even though this quote can be applied to many different situations in life, its meaning cannot be more germane than in John Wyndham’s, The Chrysalids. In the novel, Waknuk society regards women only as breeders and not as human beings. Women are powerless for they practically have no rights in their society and their sole purpose is to please their husbands and take care of their household. However, what many people in Waknuk society overlook is the importance of women in society and the key role they play in changing people’s lives. This is best proven by examining David, the main character in the novel, and his interactions …show more content…

It is because of Rosalind that David improves both his organization and working habits. When they are on the run from the people of Waknuk, Rosalind keeps David operating under a very organized schedule. Whenever he shows any signs of laziness, she rebukes him instantly. The following quote shows Rosalind rebuking David for his …show more content…

When David realizes that Petra is telepathic, he regards it as his responsibility to teach her how to use her powers and control it. The following quote shows David worrying about Petra’s ignorance and doing his best to help her, “The next day I tried to send thought-shapes to Petra. It seemed to me important for her to know as soon as possible that she must not give herself away. I tried hard, but I could make no contact with her” (85). David spends many hours with Petra and endures the pain she inflicts when she loses control of her powers, so that she can learn to use her telepathy powers correctly. This proves that David grew more responsible because, up until this point in the novel, David only cared about himself and his protection. However, with Petra’s life in danger, David takes responsibility of his younger sister who is unable to understand the danger she is in and unable to protect herself. Another event that shows David maturing to a responsible adult because of Petra is when he takes her with him when he is going on the run. Even though Petra will slow him down, David decides to take Petra with him for the sake of her protection (123-124). This shows that David grew more responsible because he looked out for his younger sister and put her life

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